U.S. figure skater Amber Glenn has successfully resolved a copyright dispute with Canadian musician Seb McKinnon, who produces music under the name CLANN. This agreement came after Glenn performed to McKinnon’s song, “The Return,” during the women’s team event at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy, on February 8, 2026.
The controversy began when McKinnon expressed surprise on social media about the use of his song without prior permission. His post questioned whether this practice was typical for Olympic athletes. Copyright issues in figure skating are increasingly prominent, as skaters must secure permission for the music they choose, a process that can often be confusing and error-prone. Several competitors at the Milan Cortina Games have faced similar challenges, with some needing to alter their programs shortly before performances due to copyright complications.
Glenn addressed the situation, stating, “The issue of music rights can be complex and confusing. It seems like there was a hiccup in that whole process. I’m glad we cleared things up with Seb, and I look forward to collaborating with him.” Despite the misunderstanding, Glenn has been using “The Return” in her free skate for two years without any issues, making the incident particularly surprising.
McKinnon clarified that his intention was not to stir controversy. He stated, “There’s absolutely no hate on my side. At the same time, I just want to make sure the artist rights are respected.” His acknowledgment of Glenn’s performance and subsequent congratulations highlighted a sense of professionalism and mutual respect between the two artists.
The issue of copyright in figure skating has evolved since the International Skating Union (ISU) relaxed regulations in 2014, allowing athletes to use contemporary music that better reflects their individuality. This shift has prompted some artists to seek compensation for their work, complicating the landscape for skaters who rely on popular tracks to enhance their routines.
Other athletes at the Winter Olympics have also faced challenges related to music permissions. For instance, skater Dmitri Sabate had to secure approval for a short program set to a medley from the animated film “Minions” only days before the competition. Similarly, another competitor, Andrei Gumennik, encountered a last-minute issue with music from the film “Perfume: The Story of a Murderer,” forcing him to switch to a different piece just before his performance.
Beyond the copyright dispute, Glenn has become a focal point at the Olympics for her advocacy of LGBTQ+ rights. Following a pre-Olympic press conference, she reported receiving threats for speaking openly about the challenges faced by the queer community, particularly under the current political climate in the United States. “I was disappointed because I’ve never had so many people wish me harm before, just for being me and speaking about being decent — human rights and decency,” she remarked, reflecting on the backlash.
As Glenn celebrates her team’s gold medal, she prepares for the women’s individual competition, which begins with the short program on February 17, 2026. The three-time U.S. champion expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete at such a prestigious event, stating, “For all of us first-time Olympians, you saw our nerves, and just getting them out. I’m really grateful that I was able to have this opportunity ahead of the individual.”
The resolution of the copyright issue not only alleviates immediate concerns for Glenn but also highlights the complexities athletes face in the modern sports landscape, where artistic expression intersects with legal requirements. As she moves forward, Glenn’s experience may serve as a catalyst for further discussions on copyright issues in figure skating and other artistic sports.
